Homeowners in foreclosure between Jan. 1, 2009, and Dec. 31, 2010, can request an independent review if their loan service participates in a program ordered by federal regulators. Homeowners who are eligible should received a letter last year with details, and some homeowners may be entitled to compensation.

But there's no cost associated with a review under the government program. Attorney General John Kroger's office said scam artists had contacted Oregonians and offered to conduct a review in exchange for a fee.

The suspect offers may guarantee compensation, a loan modification or halt legal proceedings. They may also ask for personal information -- contact information, social security numbers, banking information or credit card numbers -- in an email.